A Continuing Thread: 4-H intertwined throughout a life
Nancy Noyes-Ward, 4-H Youth Development Program Assistant
I’d like to introduce myself; I am Nancy Noyes-Ward and I am the new 4-H Youth Development Program Assistant. I live in the Pleasant Grove community and have been in Douglas County for eight years. I am parent to four twenty-something kids, all 4-H alumni!
I directly support the 4-H Youth Development Agent with all programmatic content. I work closely with volunteers, members and the
extension staff to assist in offering the highest quality research-based youth programming.
I came to Douglas County Research and Extension as a second career. I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science from VA Tech and have formerly worked as a livestock nutritionist, a 4-H extension agent, and owner of a diversified livestock farm and market garden. I have been a 4-H volunteer for over twenty years serving in a wide array of roles. I feel these varied experiences will serve me well in creating, promoting and implementing the programs our Youth Development Agent plans for Douglas County youth.
4H programs adhere to the principle that kids learn best by doing. Youth complete hands-on projects in areas like science, health, agriculture, communications, and civic engagement. Projects and activities are held in a positive environment where youth receive guidance from adult and teen mentors and are encouraged to take on proactive leadership roles. Kids can concentrate on one project area or several throughout their 4H experience.
4-H project work is how 4-H’ers learn subject matter which is significant and of interest to them. Projects are a way for youth to learn, set goals, and gain other valuable life skills through hands-on learning experiences at their own pace and skill level.
Kansas 4-H is open to youth between the ages of 7 and 19 as of January 1 of the current 4-H year. Our 4-H Cloverbud program is open to youth ages 5 and 6 as of January 1 of the current
4-H year. The new 4-H year begins October 1, so many prefer to join 4-H at the start of the school year. 4-H enrollment, however, is open year-round. If you would like more information about Douglas County 4-H, please visit https://www.douglas.k-state.edu/4-h/index.html to begin your journey.
I look forward to meeting and working with the 4-H families in Douglas County and hope to see you soon at an event. Please feel free to call or email me if you have any questions.
